RE: Critique of Critique
The Barnum Effect basically shows that humans are very flexible beings who can take on different roles and characteristics in situations of different kinds, which seem appropriate to them. That everyone can identify with the attributions is basically a good sign, because it reflects the adaptability of human beings. We are virtually dependent on people thinking and acting subjectively. If we were to understand ourselves solely in unchangeable, fixed characteristics, this would inevitably lead to disturbances in our interaction with others.
The form in which we see ourselves is coincidental (context dependent). That we are contained in all forms is necessary.
Nevertheless, I see the effect as both strength and weakness, with all shades in one direction or the other, depending on the context.
Your words remind me of Heraclitus, "a man never crosses the same river twice".
And, The Barnum Effect is not "bad", but it can be highly deceptive.
One of my main goals is to try and inoculate people against all forms of deception.
That's a good saying. I heard it somewhere else and find it quite useful.